Wireless environmental data capture system and method for mesh networking

ABSTRACT

A mesh network-based environmental data capture system and method for providing communication between a base system having at least one wireless input capture device ICD(s) and other ICD(s), wherein the ICD(s) are capable of smart cross-communication with each other and remote access to their inputs via a server computer, including the steps of providing this base system; at least one user accessing the ICDs and inputs remotely via a user interface through a remote server computer and/or electronic device communicating with it, for providing a secure surveillance system with extended inputs range and wireless smart cross-communication for monitoring a target environment.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/945,244 filed Nov. 18, 2015, which is a continuation of and claimspriority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/977,762, filed Oct. 29,2004, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.This non-provisional utility patent application is related to one ormore prior filed co-pending non-provisional applications:

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/948,501, entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System and Method With Two-Way Locking of Input CaptureDevices,” filed on Sep. 23, 2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/949,487 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System & Method with DVR-Based Querying,” filed on Sep. 24,2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/949,609 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System and Method with Emergency Video Access,” filed onSep. 24, 2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/950,033 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System and Method with Remote Viewing,” filed on Sep. 24,2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/949,489 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System and Method with External Removable Recording,” filedon Sep. 24, 2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/949,776 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System and Method with Dual Encoding,” filed on Sep. 25,2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/955,552 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System & Method with Digital Input Recorder Interface andSetup,” filed on Sep. 30, 2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/955,825 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System & Method with Rapid Installation,” filed on Sep. 30,2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/955,711 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System & Method with Input Capture and Data TransmissionPrioritization and Adjustment,” filed on Sep. 30, 2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/955,444 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System and Method with Single Click-select Actions,” filedon Sep. 30, 2004.

U.S. application Ser. No. 10/955,824 entitled “Wireless VideoSurveillance System and Method with Security Key,” filed on Sep. 30,2004.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to surveillance technology andequipment and, more particularly, to a wireless video surveillancesystem and methods associated therewith.

BACKGROUND

While video surveillance systems have existed in the prior art,typically they are wired devices that are difficult, time-consuming, andcostly to install and operate. Also, generally, they do not provide forwireless systems that are secure from wireless interception or Internetenabled interception and permit remote user access for viewing,reviewing stored information, and controlling the system's components,in particular via Internet connection to a remote controller computer orcellular phone or other Internet connected device. Thus, there remains aneed in the art for a wireless surveillance system and methods ofoperating same, providing simple setup and controls for high qualityinput capture by surveillance input capture devices (ICD), including butnot limited to video inputs, and digital input recorder device(s) (DER)associated with the ICDs, the DIRs data transfer, storage, and control,including systems and methods providing for remote viewing and controlsof the ICDs and DIRs via a remote server computer (RSC) and/or Internetaccess through the RSC.

Examples of prior art may include:

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20040105006 published Jun. 3,2004 for Lazo, et al. assigned to Sensormatic Electronics Corp. forEVENT DRIVEN VIDEO TRACKING SYSTEM, teaches a system that tracks andelectronically identifies assets from surveillance zone to surveillancezone within a controlled area is provided. A triggering event, which canbe the output of an RFID reader, or other event, initiates videotracking of the asset that is associated with the RFID tag or othertrigger. The video surveillance continues from zone to zone, as theimage of the asset is handed-off from camera to camera. The image of theasset can be selectively displayed and recorded, along with the identityof the asset. The system is flexible and programmable for use in aplurality of different environments and surveillance zones, using aplurality of different triggering sensors and video cameras.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20040136388 published Jul. 15,2004, for Schaff, for VIDEO-MONITOR/RECORDING/PLAYBACK SYSTEM, describesa stand-alone video recording, playback and Monitoring system. It hasnetwork switches, non-volatile storage devices, IP cameras, videoservers, and NTSC cameras. The system uses communication channels thatare WAN/LAN based and can be hard-wired or wireless.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20020186180 published Dec. 12,2002, for Duda, William, for HANDS FREE SOLAR POWERED CAP/VISORINTEGRATED WIRELESS MULTI-MEDIA APPARATUS, describes an apparatuswhereby the functional electronics components of popular consumercommunications and entertainment products can be repackaged in a moldedplastic module that would be mounted underneath and follow the contourof the visor of a head wearable cap/visor providing the user with ahands free, continuous power, virtually invisible multi-mediacapability. The module would feature, a drop down visual display, dropdown camera lens for low resolution digital photography, rechargeablebattery, stereo speakers and earphones, a microphone and microphoneboom, manual push button controls and LED indicator lights, input/outputjacks, and an interactive voice capability. A flexible solar cell andantenna would be mounted on the upper surface of the head wearablecap/visor providing the wireless link and continuous power to theelectronics module. All components would be secured to the head wearablecap visor via two active pins that protrude from the upper surface ofthe electronic module, pierce the visor, and mate up with the solar celland antenna on the upper surface of the visor.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20020026636 published Feb. 28,2002, for LeComte, for VIDEO INTERFACING AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM ANDMETHOD FOR DELIVERING VIDEO PROGRAMS, describes a video interfacingarrangement for connecting at least one display device to at least onevideo source composed of a module including a dedicated and programmeddigital processing unit adapted to decode and descramble video flowaccording to a preloaded decoding or descrambling program, in order todisplay, in real time or delayed in time, to store, to record and/or tosend over a telecommunication network, and on at least one screeninterface, at least one storage or recording interface, a local or widearea network connecting interface and a user communication andcontrolling interface, the interfaces being linked to and driven by theprocessing unit and preferably mounted in or on the module. Theinvention also concerns a distribution system and a method fortransferring encoded video programs and sequences over a wide areanetwork.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,335,742 issued Jan. 1, 2002, to Takemoto, for APPARATUSFOR FILE MANAGEMENT AND MANIPULATION USING GRAPHICAL DISPLAYS ANDTEXTUAL DESCRIPTIONS, describes a processor-based display processingapparatus, method and user interface allows for easy understanding ofthe contents of respective files by present a portion of the respectivefiles as a graphics image along with other associated attributes of therespective files. A computer readable recording medium with a programrecorded therein is provided for enabling a computer to function as theapparatus and perform the method. In the display processing apparatus,when an operator selects a folder from a folder display area on abrowser screen, a processor controls the selected folder to beidentified and displayed, and graphics images of image files containedin the selected folder are displayed in a predetermined display area.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20040008255 published Jan. 15,2004, for Lewellen, for VEHICLE VIDEO SYSTEM AND METHOD, describes avehicle video system includes a small camera in the passenger area thatuses illumination in the non-visible spectrum to illuminate thepassenger area. The vehicle video system records video information on adigital video recorder that uses digital media such as a hard diskdrive, recordable CD (CD-R), rewritable CD (CR-RW), or writable DigitalVideo Disc (DVD). The vehicle video system includes a local wirelessinterface, such as a Bluetooth-compatible interface, that automaticallyconnects to a compatible device in the parking area of the vehicle thatis coupled to a database. In this manner, the digital video informationcollected by the vehicle video system is automatically transferred tothe database when the vehicle is parked, removing the need for any humanintervention for the logging and cataloging of video tapes. The localwireless interface of the vehicle video system also allows otherdevices, such as a handheld device or a vehicle video system in adifferent vehicle, to access the stored digital video information.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20040165546 published Aug. 26,2004, for Roskind, for TIME BASED WIRELESS ACCESS PROVISIONING,describes a method and apparatus for the time-based provisioning ofwireless devices. A network access point monitors operation of wirelessdevices within a service region. When provisioning logic is activated atthe network access point, the access point determines if the trackedparameter (such as power on or the onset of signal transmission) of thewireless device occurs within a designated time interval from the timeof the provisioning activation. If the tracked device qualifies, thenetwork access point proceeds with provisioning the device. In onesystem embodiment, the network access point tracks the power on time ofwireless devices. When a wireless device to be authorized is powered on,the provisioning logic at the network access point notes the power ontime. The user then activates the provisioning access at the networkaccess point, and the network access point provisions the wirelessdevice if it is recently powered on.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20030188320 published Oct. 2,2003, for Shing, for METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR A DISTRIBUTED DIGITAL VIDEORECORDER, describes a system and method, for remote display and controlof an audio/video data stream from a capture device, e.g., a TV capturecard, audio/visual capture card or digital camera capture card in a PC.In an exemplary embodiment there are some components of a software DVRplayer executing on at least one client device and other components onat least one server device. Users can view and/or control theaudio/video data from a server device, having a capture device, onclient devices located anywhere as long as they are connected to theserver through a network. In addition, a server device with a capturedevice can support display of the video data at multiple client devicesat the same time.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20020188955 published Dec. 12,2002, for Thompson et al., for DIGITAL VIDEO RECORDING AND PLAYBACKSYSTEM FOR TELEVISION, describes a system and apparatus for digitallyrecording and playing back videos from either an Internet website or aTV broadcast or cablecast is disclosed herein. The system comprises aset-top box, along with the necessary cables and remote control units,that connects between a television set and an Internet hook-up andallows a viewer to digitally record TV shows and/or download video fromthe Internet and store said video on the set-top box's hard drive forlater viewing (using video encoding technology). In addition to therecording and playback capabilities, the disclosed system allows theviewer to pause, rewind, slo-mo, and instant replay live televisionwithout videotapes or VCR programming.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20040168194 published Aug. 26,2004, for Hughes, for INTERNET TACTICAL ALARM COMMUNICATION SYSTEM,describes an Internet tactical alarm communication (ITAC) systemincludes at least one sensor, at least one video camera, and an ITACcomputer delivery unit, wherein the at least one sensor, the at leastone video camera, and the ITAC computer delivery unit arecommunicatively interconnected, and the ITAC system provides real-timedata regarding a particular condition.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20020100052 published Jul. 25,2002, for Daniels, for METHODS FOR ENABLING NEAR VIDEO-ON-DEMAND ANDVIDEO-ON-REQUEST SERVICES USING DIGITAL VIDEO RECORDERS, describes anear video-on-demand (VOD) service enabled using a digital videorecorder (DVR) for the simultaneous storage and playback of multimediadata. A DVR is connected over a network to a multimedia network source.A VOD selection is requested by the DVR from the network source. Amultimedia data signal is received by the DVR from the network source.The data signal contains the requested VOD selection. A first receivedportion of the received data signal is stored on the DVR. The firstreceived segment is played by the DVR for display on a display device.Simultaneously during the playing of the first received segment, asecond received segment of the received data signal is received from thenetwork source and stored on the DVR while the first received segment isplayed the display device. Thus, the requested VOD selection beginsplaying on the display device prior to the reception of the entirecompressed multimedia data signal so that a requested VOD selection canbegin being displayed nearly instantaneously after the request for it ismade. A video-on-request (VOR) service is also enabled using a DVR. VORselection data is received by a centralized database device, such as anetwork server, from a plurality of users. Each VOR selection dataincludes at least one requested video selection and video recorderidentifying information for identifying each particular video recorder.A transmission priority of requested video selections is determineddependent on the frequency of requests received from the plurality ofusers. A transmission channel and time is determined based on thetransmission priority. DVR control signals are transmitted toautomatically tune in the determined transmission channel at thedetermined transmission time and record the particular video selection.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed to a wireless surveillance system andmethods of operating same, providing simple setup and controls for highquality input capture by surveillance input capture devices (ICDs) thatare capable of cross-communication with each other, including but notlimited to video inputs, and digital input recorder device(s) (DIR)associated with the ICDs, the DIRs data transfer, storage, and control,more particularly, the present invention is directed toward a method forcontrolling communication between ICD(s) and corresponding DIR. Thepresent invention is further directed toward systems and methodsproviding for remote viewing and controls of the ICDs and DIRs via aremote server computer (RSC) and/or Internet access through the RSC, thesystems and methods having controllable communication between the ICD(s)and corresponding DIR.

In a preferred embodiment, there is at least one ICD associated with acorresponding DIR for providing a system for capturing inputs of atarget environment via the at least one ICD and transferring thoseinputs via two-way controllable wireless communication with the DIR forelectronic, digital storage and remote access thereof. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the system further includes an RSC, which isdirectly or Internet-remotely accessed by at least one authorized userof the system, when control settings permit. Such controllable remoteaccess includes user viewing of captured inputs of the targetenvironment, including live and/or historical/recorded data, storing,editing, retrieving or otherwise reviewing said inputs, and controllingthe system settings and activities, and combinations thereof.

The present invention is further directed to a method for installing andoperating the system and various embodiments and combinations thereof.

Thus, the present invention provides systems and methods for wirelesssurveillance of predetermined environments, in particular with remoteaccess and controls of the system components.

Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention is to provide a systemfor surveillance of a predetermined environment having at least onewireless input capture device (ICD) and a corresponding digital inputrecorder (DIR) for receiving, storing, editing, and/or retrieving storedinput from the at least one ICD and controlling the ICD via wireless,remote communication therewith.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a system forsurveillance of a predetermined environment having at least one wirelessinput capture device (ICD) and a corresponding digital input recorder(DIR) for receiving, storing, editing, and/or retrieving stored inputfrom the at least one ICD and controlling the ICD, and a remote servercomputer (RSC) for providing at least one authorized user remote,wireless access to the at least one ICD and DIR, where the ICD, DIR, andRSC are in wireless digital communication with each other and where theRSC may be accessed directly by the user or through the Internet.

Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide methods ofusing the system embodiments set forth herein, such as a method forlocking communication between at least one wireless input capture deviceICD(s) and a corresponding digital input recorder (DIR), including thesteps of providing base system; at least one user accessing the DIR viauser interface either directly or remotely; the DIR searching for signalfrom the ICD(s) and establishing communication with them; and lockingthe ICDs to send wireless data exclusively to that DVR; and/or the DVRlocking itself for exclusive communication with the locked ICDs, therebyproviding a secure surveillance system for a target environment.

These and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent tothose skilled in the art after a reading of the following description ofthe preferred embodiment when considered with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment constructed according tothe present invention.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a back view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a schematic showing the interconnection of remote units of thesystem.

FIG. 8 is a user interface view of inputs to the system viewable by auser.

FIG. 9 is a schematic showing communication between ICDs that thencommunicate with a DIR that then communicates with a RSC.

FIG. 10 is a schematic showing communication between ICDs that thencommunicate to a cell tower which then communicates to a RSC via theinternet.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, like reference characters designate likeor corresponding parts throughout the several views. Also in thefollowing description, it is to be understood that such terms as“forward,” “rearward,” “front,” “back,” “right,” “left,” “upwardly,”“downwardly,” and the like are words of convenience and are not to beconstrued as limiting terms.

Referring now to the drawings in general, the illustrations are for thepurpose of describing a preferred embodiment of the invention and arenot intended to limit the invention thereto. As best seen in FIG. 1, thetwo base elements of a system constructed according to the presentinvention are shown side-by-side, including a wireless input capturedevice and a corresponding digital input recorder.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment constructed accordingto the present invention, showing an input capture device (“ICD”),generally referred to as 30, and a digital input recorder (“DIR”),generally referred to as 10, juxtapositioned. The DIR 10 has a plasticcase 11 with a metal plate 12 affixed thereto and a removable tiltadjustable base 13 removably attached to the bottom of the DIR. Antennas14, near the top of the DIR provide wireless communication for thepresent invention. A green power led and button 15 is near the top ofthe DIR. The button 15 can turn on the motion detection and/or recordall functions of the present invention. The status indicator LEDS 26 areplaced on the front of the DIR and can illuminate either red or green.

Similarly, the ICD 30 has a plastic case 31 with a metal plate 32affixed thereto and a removable tilt adjustable base 33 removablyattached to the bottom of the ICD. Antennas 34, near the top of the ICDprovide wireless communication for the present invention. A power/motiondetection LED 35 is positioned near the bottom of the front of the ICDand can illuminate either red or green. A microphone 36 is alsopositioned on the front of the ICD to detect sound. The camera lens 37is positioned near the top front of the ICD.

FIG. 2 shows a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, showing anICD 30 and a DIR 10 juxtapositioned.

FIG. 3 shows a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, showing anICD 30 and a DIR 10 juxtapositioned.

FIG. 4 shows a back view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, showing anICD 30 and a DIR 10 juxtapositioned. The ICD 30 has air vents 41 tofacilitate cooling of the device. FIG. 4 also illustrates the variousports that are available on the two devices. The ICD 30 has thefollowing ports: RJ-45 42; Alarm I/O Out 43; Microphone In 44; RCA VideoOut 45; and DC In 46.

Similarly, the DIR 10 has air vents 21 to facilitate cooling. Some ofthe ports may differ between the ICD and DIR. The DIR 10 has thefollowing ports: RJ-45 22; Alarm I/O Out 23; Audio Out 24; RCA Video Out25; DC In 26; and USB 27.

FIG. 5 shows a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, showing anICD 30 and a DIR 10 juxtapositioned. This demonstrates the possiblefootprints of the devices.

FIG. 6 shows a back, side, and front view of an alternative embodimentof the ICD 30 component of FIG. 1. The ICD 30 is similar to thatpreviously described except the air vents 41 have been removed and theantennas 34 have been positioned to the back of the ICD. Additionally,FIG. 6 illustrates the ICD with the removable tilt adjustable base 33removed.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic showing the interconnection of remote units ofthe system.

FIG. 8 shows a user interface view of inputs to the system viewable by auser.

FIG. 9 shows one mesh networking scheme according to the presentinvention. In one embodiment, ICDs communicate with each other to 1)extend the range of the ICDs, so they transmit data to pass down theline to the receiver, extending the range by the number of cameras and2) cameras communicate with each other based on set rules and decidethemselves when an issue should be made aware of to the DIR or RSC. Byway of example, one camera can alert another camera if it picks up afast moving person who is running towards that camera; if a personshould not be at that camera, it can then alert the DIR or RSC.

Alternatively, ICDs can communicate with each other to exchange RFIDdata that each ICD receives and then, based on rules that each camerahas, act on that data. By way of example, if an ICD detects a person whohas an RFID tag, the ICD can also detect that person's RFID data andcompare it to a database to determine if that person has permission tobe at a certain location. Furthermore, the system also can track aperson's movement. If a person appears with the incorrect RFID tag or noRFID tag, then an alarm can be sent to other ICDs and/or the DIR whichcan in turn communicate with the RSC.

FIG. 10 shows another mesh networking scheme according to the presentinvention. In one embodiment, ICDs communicate with each other based onset rules and decide themselves when an issue should be made aware of toRSC via a cellular connection. The ICDs send data to one another and inan alternate configuration just send data to the RSC via the cell towerand the RSC sends data back to each ICD. By way of example, one cameracan alert another camera if it picks up a fast moving person who isrunning towards that camera; if a person should not be at that camera,it can then alert the RSC.

The wireless surveillance system according to the present inventionincludes at least one wireless input capture device (ICD) for sensing,capturing and transmitting surveillance inputs from a predeterminedinput capture location, and a digital input recorder device (DIR) forreceiving the surveillance inputs from the at least one wireless ICD andstoring those inputs, which are capable of being reviewed by a systemuser on a controller/server computer, wherein the server computer isoptionally used for communication with the ICDs and DIRs. In oneembodiment of the present invention, the at least one ICD andcorresponding DIR device are used to form the system without requiring aseparate server computer. The DIR itself has full capabilities whenarranged for communication wirelessly with ICDs for recording andcontrolling inputs to the system, as well as settings for each of the atleast one ICD, including activation of each.

Input Capture Device(s) (ICDs)

On the front end of the system, the at least one wireless ICD furtherincludes a power source, a power converter; soft power down componentwhich provides for a gentle power down so that ICD settings arepreserved and not lost. Preferably, while the ICD is wireless, itfurther includes an optional network connection at a back side of theICD also, so it can be hardwired into a network.

The ICD also includes at least one sensor and at least one inputcomponent for detecting and recording inputs, a processor, a memory, atransmitter/receiver, and optionally, at least indicator light forindicating camera activities, all constructed and configured inelectronic connection. By way of example and not limitation, the atleast one input component may include a microphone, and/or a camera. Inone preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least onewireless ICD includes two antennas for providing a wireless signal forreceiving and/or transmitting data with the DIR device or anotherICD(s). The ICDs are operable for cross-communication with each other,including data exchange, wherein the data exchange includes informationabout the surveillance environment, settings, inputs, and combinationsthereof. The at least one wireless ICD further includes a housing havinga removable casing around the lens to make lens adjustments or settings;ICD adjustments and settings are preferably optional, and are notusually required in preferred embodiments of the present invention, asthe DIR device automatically establishes and controls the ICD settingsand activities for each of the at least one wireless ICDs associatedwith the particular DIR device.

For the preferred embodiments where the ICD includes a digital videocamera (DVC) having a lens and corresponding camera components, thecamera further includes a computer chip providing for capabilities ofperforming video compression within the ICD itself. The ICD as awireless digital video camera is capable of capturing video within itsrange within the surveillance environment and compressing the capturedvideo into a data stream, the capture occurring at predetermined datesand times, during activity detection, and/or on command from thewireless DIR associated therewith. In the case of video, the images areadjustable to capture at different sizes, different frame rates, and/orto include the display of the name of the device (determined by the userand/or the system), the date, the time, and combinations thereof. TheICD including a DVC is capable of capturing images that are combinableand/or integratable with the video data stream and/or compressible intoan individual image data stream, all at predetermined dates and times,when activity such as motion or audio are detected, on command from thewireless DVR, and combinations thereof. As with video capture, imagecapture is adjustable to capture at different sizes, different framerates, and/or to include the display of the name of the device(determined by the user and/or the system), the date, the time, andcombinations thereof. A data stream of images is transmittablewirelessly to the wireless DVR.

Similarly, where the at least one ICD has audio capabilities, thecaptured audio, which is combinable and/or integratable with otherinputs captured by the ICD sensors, is compressible into an individualaudio data stream, which is transmittable wirelessly to the DIR. Theactivity of audio ICD is activatable at predetermined dates and times,during activity detection, and/or on command from the wireless DIRassociated therewith. The audio ICD is further adjustable to captureaudio at different or variable rates.

Preferably, since the ICD generates heat during operation, the ICDhousing includes a cooling system having a vent and a low noise coolingfan. Since the video components of ICDs generate heat that must bedissipated for optimal performance of the system, preferred embodimentsof the present invention include housing units with components thatoperate at lower temperatures, i.e., which generate less heat duringoperation, and include housing units formed of materials that dissipateheat well, and may include a combination of materials, such as metalsand synthetic plastics or composites. While ICDs are preferably used forindoor applications, waterproofing and weather proofing housing unitsand other components for sealing the housing against water and weatherare used for outdoor applications of the present invention. By way ofexample, sealed or gasketed casing, weatherproof venting and fancomponents to prevent water blowing into or being sucked into the case,are used for outdoor ICD units.

Other components optional to the housing unit but preferred for ease ofuse of the system include a removable filter collar on a front end ofthe camera lens, which facilitates user access for changing the filterand/or to provide a different filter, such as a polarization filter or aspecialty filter, for example, to reduce light input or camera aperture.

The ICDs of the present invention are capable of detecting motion,capturing video, detecting and/or capturing audio, providing at leastone data stream capability, including video, compressed video, audio,and combinations thereof. The at least one ICD is capable of capturingvideo, which is compressible into a data stream, and transmittablewirelessly to the DIR device, with the ICD audio data or other inputdata, such as temperature, humidity, chemical presence, radiation, andother input data, depending upon the sensors and intake means of eachICD, being combinable and/or integratable with the video data stream.Thus, while the ICDs each include at least one sensor for detection andat least one capture input means, preferably each of the ICDs include atleast two sensors and input means for image and/or video, and audiocapture. In a preferred embodiment, at least two sensor types are used,audio and image or video sensors. The at least one indicator is includedwith the ICD to indicate that the power is “on”, and to indicate, thatmotion and/or audio being detected. The indicator is activatable whenmotion and/or audio is detected in a predetermined area and/or in apredetermined amount within the environment.

Each of the at least one ICDs is constructed for configuration that iscapable of wireless communication (2-way) with the corresponding DIRdevice and/or any other ICD(s), which when configured provide a systemfor wireless electronic surveillance of an environment. In a preferredembodiment of the present invention, the ICDs are provided with multipleinput multiple output (MIMO) wireless capability. Other wirelesscommunication may be provided instead of MIMO.

Night vision for ICD video input capture may be provided using aninfrared (IR) light source, so that the video recorded may be effectivein low- to no-light conditions. Image or video input capture may beprovided in a range of resolution, in black/white, in color, and sizedbased upon inputs from the DIR device and/or controller/server computerby an authorized user of the system, and are modifiable after setup ofthe system by modifying controls remotely, and/or by modifying hardware.

The ICD further includes at least one chip that makes the device anintelligent appliance, permitting functions to be performed by the ICDitself without requiring software installation or the DIR, including butnot limited to sensor and input controls, such as camera digital zoom,pan left and right, tilt up and down; image or video brightness,contrast, saturation, resolution, size, motion and audio detectionsettings, recording settings, communication with other ICDs; and singlechip video compression (single DSP). The ICD also includes a sensor withability for high dynamic range for inputs. Preferred embodiments of asystem according to the present invention includes video technologycommercially provided by PIXIM, and set forth under U.S. Pat. Nos.6,791,611; 6,788,237; 6,778,212; 6,765,619; 6,737,626; 6,726,103;6,693,575; 6,680,748; 6,665,012; 6,552,746; 6,545,258; 6,542,189;6,518,909; 6,507,083; 6,498,576; 6,498,336; 6,452,152; 6,380,880; and6,310,571.

The ICD further includes a stand to support the device; the stand may beincluded with, integral with, or attached to the housing. The stand isconstructed and configured to be mountable to a wall, suspend fromceiling, and provide a variety of stable positions for the ICD tocapture as much data from a given environment as appropriate, given thespace, conditions, and input capture type desired. Importantly, thestand serves as a stable base to tilt the ICD for camera direction upand down, and/or side to side. The stand is movable between positionsbut retains a fixed position by a predetermined friction to ensure sothat the ICD stays in place wherever the positioning was last stopped.The base and stand of the ICD is constructed such that it does notrequire mounting to a surface to provide stability. The adjustabilityand mobility of the device are significant features of the presentinvention to ensure optimal surveillance and easy setup.

Furthermore, the stand is weight balanced for good center of gravity tosupport the adjustment on the stand for stability on the entire range ofmotion for the ICD on its stand; since motion of the ICD is adjustableand provides for dynamic range of motion when the ICD is in use, thestand construction enables remote modification of settings withoutrequiring the user of the system to readjust or optimize the ICDpositioning in person.

The ICD preferably is constructed and configured for a range ofcoverage, which can vary depending upon the conditions and limitationsof a particular target environment. In a preferred embodiment of thesystem, the ICD has a range of coverage with a target range of at leastup to 250 ft. The ICDs are capable of having a range of up to 300meters, with an active wireless range from 1-1000 ft linear feetindoors, and preferably greater. Advantageously, the ICD can beconfigured and activated quickly for quick start up of a surveillancesystem in the target environment. Additionally, the ICDs have theability to communicate with one another to act as a data repeater andextend the usable wireless range to 3,000 meters and more.

Significantly, no adjustments to camera settings, such as focus andfocal length, are required after camera installation; ICD settings arepreadjusted and further controllable remotely by the DIR and/or RSCand/or other ICD(s). By contrast, in the prior art, adjustments areusually always required for surveillance cameras following installation.Preprogrammed settings may be provided, with automatic and remoteadjustment capabilities. Where the ICD is a video camera, the settingsmay include focus, resolution, etc.

Each of the at least one ICD is constructed to optimally reduce heatfrom particular heat-generating components. In a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention, the ICD includes a plastic case with metal sidesto reduce heat while the system is running. Also, a back plate of theICD or camera is all metal to increase heat dissipation, and to optimizeweight and heat management, which important where there is a lot ofpower involved, as with wireless video input devices. Also,significantly, the ICDs and/or DIR devices are constructed with aseparate chamber for imaging components to reduce heat. It is known thatheat is not good for imaging sensors or equipment; however, cooling fanscan generate noise, which is preferably minimized with security systemsand components therein. The camera is configured to communicate with animaging board with a flexible electronics communication cable, whichpermits the camera to have a separate chamber for optimized heatreduction. This is a problem specific to wireless cameras that has notbeen successfully addressed in the prior art.

The ICD also includes at least one and preferably two antenna that areremovable, including standard antennae, which may be substituted for apatch antenna and/or a long range antenna.

The inputs captured by ICDs are provided to the DIR for which output forRCA viewing is available, such as connecting a monitor with a userinterface for remote viewing of video from video cameras. In this casethe setup easier because the remote user can see what the camera viewsfrom the monitor, which is removably connectable to the system. The ICDand DIR also have an optional network connection at the back side, sothe devices can be hardwired into the network, if appropriate; however,wireless connections are preferred.

Additionally, the ICDs have inputs, such as video and microphone, and atleast one indicator light. In the case of a wireless video camera, thehousing includes an easily removable casing around the lens to make lensadjustments or settings, which optional, and not usually required.

Additionally, the ICDs have the ability to communicate with one anotherto exchange data about the environment and all control settings andother settings of any other ICDs.

Digital Input Recorder Device (DIR Device)

The DIR is an optional component of the system where ICDs have smartmicroprocessing capabilities that enable data input capture, inputsprocessing and comparison with settings and/or reference data, andcross-communication with each other. However, where used, the wirelessDIR device communicates directly with the at least one ICD, and, inembodiments where the controller/server is included in the system, theDIR device also communicates with the controller server to send datastreams to the server and receive data or instruction from thecontroller/server to control its properties. In the case of a videocamera for at least one ICD, the DIR may also be referred to as adigital video recorder device (DVR).

Surprisingly, compared with prior art surveillance systems, the DIRdevice and the smart ICDs function as appliances, which permits a rapidsetup of the system. Significantly, since the DIR device operates as anappliance, there is no software installation involved in the basicsystem setup. The preferred embodiments of the present inventionincluding at least one ICD and a corresponding DIR device permit forsetup and recordation of inputs to the system from the observation orsurveillance environment with one click activation by theuser/installer, generally in less than ten minutes from start to finish.Such rapid setup, including installation and activation to recording ofthe system, is not possible with prior art systems, given their complexcomponents, interactivity via transmission lines, and/or softwareinstallations, which typically require an expert or trained specialistto ensure proper setup, installation, activation, and testing of thesystem prior to ongoing operation. By sharp contrast, the preferredembodiments of the present invention provide for one click activationfor receiving and recording inputs to the at least one wireless ICD,i.e., for activating the ICD capability to record designated dates andtimes, when a surveillance event, a motion event or an audio event isdetected by at least one of the at least one ICDs in the system,immediately after the rapid setup is complete.

Furthermore, the system provides for rapid settings adjustment,including settings for sensitivity of ICD motion and audio detection;preferably, the settings adjustment is made by the user through the DIRdevice. The user simply sets a surveillance area for observation anddata capture by each ICD of the at least one wireless ICD; for videocapture, using an ICD with a digital camera, the camera may be set tofocus on a predetermined location within the area, such as a window, adoor, and the like. While the settings are practically a function of theICD itself, the DIR device, which is also wireless, functions to controlthe settings of each of the corresponding ICDs associated with that DIRdevice. Other functions performed by the DIR device include, but are notlimited to printing, saving or storing recorded inputs from the ICDs,transferring data to a removable storage device, such as a USB storagekey device.

Also, a power supply and a soft power down function is provided, similarto the ICD soft power down, to preserve the settings of the DIR devicein the event of power termination to the device.

The DIR is capable of running software for managing input from the atleast one wireless ICD associated with or corresponding to a particularDIR device after installation. With the software, the DIR is capable ofintaking and managing up to 10 data streams simultaneously; allowing theuser to control the ICD unit, including allowing the user to zoom, pan,and tilt the camera, as well as managing microphone sensitivity.Sensitivity controls for other ICD input means, such as heat ortemperature, chemical substance presence, radiation detection, and thelike may be controlled remotely from the wireless DIR device as well.Other DIR device control functions for controlling the ICDs include butare not limited to controlling brightness, contrast, color saturation,where images and video are involved.

Other software-based functions capable of being performed by the DIRinclude sending text message, sending still image, sending email orother communication to a user on a remote communications device;usually, these functions are programmed to occur upon the occurrence ofan event. DIR data recordation and storage overwrite may be based onsettings that enable newer data to overwrite older data. Additionally,the DIR may be programmed to include overwrite protection to preventoverwriting of event video, audio, or other input data captured by theICD and transmitted to the DIR device. Preferably, the DIR includescapabilities of data search and display, data archiving to externaldevice, network, computer, server, and combinations thereof, dataprinting, data exporting, data deletion, data playback, and combinationsthereof. Data playback includes play, fast forward, rewind or reverse,frame by frame step forward or backward, pause, and combinationsthereof.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system includesa DIR device running software that is capable of automatically upgradingits own software, which eliminates user maintenance, upgrading, or otheractivity to optimize system performance.

The DIR's capabilities of adjusting settings and/or controls for the atleast one ICDs includes any functions of the ICDs, including but notlimited to zoom pan and tilt, color brightness, contrast, saturation,sharpness, frame rate, video and/or image size, audio rate, wirelesscontrol data, encryption and security data, set motion and/or audiodetection area and/or levels, set recording, set triggers, record oncommand, and combinations thereof.

The DIR is preferably capable of connecting directly to a computer or acomputer network, more specifically connecting to a personal computervia a USB or similar connection and to a network using a network cableor similar connector, with the DIR interface being accessible after suchconnection through a user interface or a web browser, respectively; andcapable of sending data and/or alert or warning to a cell phone orcomputer via a signal or message such as by voice or email.

Also, the DIR is capable of performing a backup of the ICD inputs,including video, to a network, a personal computer (PC), computerreadable medium (CRM) or other storage device. The DIR may be programmedto lock to predetermined ICDs having cameras, to maintain integrity ofcamera signal to DIR device.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the user interfaceof the ICD inputs on the DIR device include at least one visual cue onthe video to tell whether video is being recorded, e.g., a red and/orgreen dot is shown on the image. Also, preferably, the DIR device has afront with indicator lights that match or correspond to these samevisual cues. For quality checking purposes, similarities such as theseprovide ease of use for the system user to confirm system functionalityupon inspection.

The DIR device is programmable for wireless communication with inputcapture device, including both transmitting data, settings, controllinginstructions and receiving input captured from the ICD, like images,video, audio, temperature, humidity, chemical presence, radiation, andthe like. Thus, the DIR device is capable of receiving wireless datafrom the wireless input capture device(s), indicating which of the ICDsis active, recording data and storing data, searching through recordeddata, transmitting data and instructions to the ICD, adjusting ICDsettings and/or controls, communicating with the controller/servercomputer to send and/or receive data, and other functions, dependingupon the specifications of the system setup, the environment undersurveillance, and whether or not remote access is used via thecontroller/server computer and Internet.

The DIR device's data recordation and storage capability permit inputsfrom a multiplicity of ICDs to be associated with each DIR device to besingularly received, recorded, stored, and researched by a remote userfrom the ICDs. The user can search historically recorded data by date,time, event type, or any other means of selecting a setting or eventcorresponding to the each or any of the ICDs and the environment undersurveillance by the system. Each of the ICDs is capable ofindividualized settings control by a single DIR device; a multiplicityof DIR devices may be controlled and managed by the controller/server,either within a given surveillance environment or in differentlocations.

Other components of the DIR device include, but are not limited tohaving a base that may be optionally adjustable for optimized mountingon a surface; having a long range MIMO wireless component; having aone-chip video compression component for resizing video data,recompressing it, and streaming it; having a USB port connectable to acomputer, or for storage key, or removable hard drive for data storage;having an ethernet port to connect to a network; having RCA video outputlike the ICDs; having 2 or 3 USB ports for data output as well as for aUSB based security key, having at least one antenna, preferably threeantennae, which may be removable and replaceable; having a power controlbutton on the housing; having a recessed reset button in the housing,accessible on the backside of the housing; having a low noise fan;having a hard drive for recording inputs; and/or having at least one,preferably a multiplicity of indicators, preferably light emittingdiodes (LEDs), that are viewable by a user on the outside of the housingof the DIR device.

By way of example, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention,the DIR device has ten LEDs on the front of the housing, each of whichcorrespond to an individual ICD. Significantly, these indicators, inparticular as LEDs, provide content dense visual information with aquick glance from the user. There are five modes that represent ICDstatus, illustrated for one embodiment in the following table, Table 1:

LED INDICATOR CORRESPONDING STATUS Off ICD off Green ICD connected toDIR device Flashing Green DIR recording inputs from the ICD Flashing RedICD detecting at least one event Red Error warningThe error warning may be due to a variety of conditions, such as, by wayof example and not limitation, lost connection between the ICD and DIRdevice, data loss, throughput reduction, etc.

The optional remote controller or server computer (RSC) runs softwareproviding for remote access and control, and is separate from thewireless DIR and the ICDs. Users log in with a username and passwordfrom any Internet connected PC, web enabled cell phone, or otherInternet enabled or network communicable device, to remotely access orreview the wireless input or camera video and/or image(s). The useraccesses the system through a user interface operating in connectionwith a web browser. The RSC communicates directly with the wireless DIRand enables users to remotely configure wireless DIR properties and theICDs' properties, and, preferably to perform any of the functions thatare directly performable for any DIR or ICD, such functions being setforth in the foregoing. The RSC may provide an electronic commercefunction such as providing a user to pay for remote access service. TheRSC provides an authorized user remote from the target surveillanceenvironment the option of logging into the system, selecting any ICD formonitoring, e.g., select any camera input from any DER, print, save,email image from the input, such as a video clip, and zoom, pan and tiltlive video through the DIR, similar control and/or access activities,and combinations thereof.

The RSC functions as a remote monitoring station like a personalcomputer and is capable of providing a user interface that is accessiblethrough a web browser; the RSC is thus any Internet connectable device,including computer, PDA, cell phone, watch, any network accessibledevice, and the like, which provides access for at least one remoteuser. The at least one remote user is preferably a predetermined,authorized user.

Users of the system are preferably authorized, whether access is director remote. Apart from direct access, authorization may also determinelevels of access for each user. While all capabilities of the DIR andICDs are controllable remotely, either by the DIR itself or by anInternet communicable device in communication with a server computerthat communicates with the DIR(s), the number and type of devices may belimited based upon authorization level of a user.

The RSC provides for user remote access to live and/or recorded audioand/or video for any camera on any DVR; furthermore, control functionspermit this user(s) to adjust and to make changes to any DVR or ICDsettings remotely. Also, off-line archiving is operable via the userselecting to remotely record to the RSC.

DIR and ICD Communication Locking

In one embodiment of the present invention, a method for lockingcommunication between at least one wireless input capture device ICD(s)and a corresponding digital input recorder (DIR) or other ICD(s), eitherone-way and/or two-way, is provided, including the steps of providingbase system; at least one user accessing the DIR via user interfaceeither directly or remotely; the DIR and/or ICD(s) searching for signalfrom the ICD(s) and establishing communication with them; and lockingthe ICDs to send wireless data exclusively to that DIR or ICD; and/orthe DIR or ICD locking itself for exclusive communication with thelocked ICDs, thereby providing a secure surveillance system for a targetenvironment.

DIR Activation and ICD Searching

The ICD is activated when at least one user accesses the DIR software byeither launching the software directly or launching the DIR device or byclicking on an activation or start button for triggering activity stepswithin the software and hardware system to activate communicationincluding data exchange between predetermined DIRs and theircorresponding selected ICDs. In a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention the at least one ICD includes a wireless digital camera andthe corresponding DIR is a DVR; however, one of ordinary skill in theart will appreciate that the functionality applies to a range of ICDsand corresponding DIRs, with or without video capabilities in each case.When any of these events occur, the DVR initiates checking for signalsfrom prior configured capture devices. If the DVR starts without anyprior configured capture devices, then the DVR automatically beginssearching for wireless signals from capture devices. If the DVR startswith prior configured capture devices and the user wants to addadditional devices, the user clicks on a search button, and the DVRbegins searching for wireless signals from capture devices not alreadyconfigured and communicating with the DVR.

Communication

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the DIR is operableto identify signal(s) from the at least one ICD corresponding thereto,and the DIR automatically establishes communication with the identifiedcapture device and creates a named representation, such as an icon orimage with a name that represents the active ICD. Also, the DIR isoperable to create a named representation for each of the correspondingICDs associated with that DIR that are identified but not in activecommunication with the DIR at that time. The non-communication status ofthese devices is denoted in the representation, for example by at leastone indicator having at least one status, as set forth in the foregoing(see, e.g., Table 1). Then, the wireless digital video camera as ICD isoperable to send a still image to the DIR interface, where applicable,for the user to confirm identity of the ICD sending the image.Importantly, the smart cross-communication of the ICDs permits inputsprocessing, comparison, recording, and combinations thereofindependently of the RSC or DIR. The user may rename the ICD at thattime or at a subsequent time. Importantly, no additional user steps arerequired to establish the monitoring set-up.

Camera Validation/Communication Optimization

The DVR is further operable to validate the device approval status forcommunication with the specific DVR and optimizes the wireless signal tothe DVR to ensure the greatest information throughput.

Camera Locking/Security Establishment

Preferably, security functionality is operable when a DIR automaticallylocks a specific ICD, such as to permit sending wireless data only tothat specific DIR and automatically initiating security on the datastream. The security methods may include cryptographic methods such asdigital signing, stream cipher encryption, block cipher encryption, andpublic key encryption or hardware based encryption in which each devicehas a hardware device for encryption included. By way of example and notlimitation, WAP, 802.11i, AES, SSL, stream cipher, any other type ofsecurity protocol, and combinations thereof may be used.

DIR Locking

Any of the DIRs operable within the system and having at least one ICDassociated therewith are further operable to be locked to preventsetting changes or data manipulation from any device apart from the DIRwith which each ICD is locked into communication. In one embodiment ofthe present invention having video capabilities, the DVR as DIR, uponconfirming detection of all the signal(s) from ICD(s) associatedtherewith, confirms the establishment of communication with eachdetected ICD, in particular wireless digital video camera, and locks theDVR to only communicate with the found device(s), unless it receivesinstruction from the user to look for other signal(s). The DVR indicatessuch a locked status, for example, by displaying a lock indicator on theDVR and/or on the ICD to provide an external visual status indicationthat the ICD(s) are locked and also sends a lock status signal to anentity outside the present system, such as to the RSC and/or an alarmsystem or security software. Once searching and locking is complete, theDVR will not accept signals from capture devices that are not locked tothe DVR, unless directed to search for capture devices by the user byclick-selecting the search button 210. Alternatively, the system cannotify the user of new ICDs that come into communication with the systemduring operation and/or after initial setup has occurred.

Camera Removal

ICDs may be removed from operation and/or operational communication orinteraction with the system. To remove a capture device from the DVRsystem, the user click-selects from the user interface on an imageand/or name that represents the capture device they want removed andthen click-selects a single removal button. The DIR then removes thatcapture device from the system.

Smart Mesh Camera Networking with Video Content Management

In one embodiment of the present invention, the system includes a smartmesh ICD networking with a video content management. The smart mesh ICDnetwork of the system is operable to provide ICDs to communicate witheach other and/or the wireless DIR to act as repeaters, i.e., anextension or repeat functional component, to extend the usable range ofthe system beyond the range of any individual ICD. Thus, by way ofexample where the standard range of the wireless DIR to a ICD is 200ft., using a smart mesh ICD and system according to the presentinvention provides that a ICD 600 ft. away from the DIR is operable tosend a signal to another of the multiplicity of ICDs having digitalvideo input capabilities and corresponding components that is located400 ft. away, and the second signal is combined with the first signal,which is then sent it to still another or third ICD that is 200 ft.away, and so on, providing an extended signal transmission from a seriesof wirelessly interconnected ICDs to provide an effective range ofsecurity surveillance over a larger target environment that is adistance additive of the range of each of the individual ICDscommunicating with each other and the DIR.

In another embodiment of the present invention, in particular whereinthe system has video capabilities, the system includes ICDs that areoperable to communicate with each other and/or the wireless DIR toexchange data and/or control each other to ensure that important datafrom ICD inputs is recorded properly with the DIR. By way of example, afirst ICD senses the motion of a person moving towards a second ICD andcommunicates instruction or directive to the second ICD to be aware ofthe motion sensed by the first ICD and to take appropriate action asprogrammed or set-up for that ICD, such as to record the sensed motion.The appropriate action may further include capturing and/or recordingthe inputs at an increased frame rate, an increased resolution, and/orother action to ensure that the important data, in this case motion, iscaptured or recorded by the second ICD.

In another embodiment of the present invention, in particular whereinthe system has video capabilities, the system includes ICDs that areoperable to communicate with each other and/or the wireless DIR toexchange data and/or control each other based on a set of rules createdby the user. By way of example, a first ICD detects a first motion of afirst object that is moving towards a second ICD; wherein the first ICDhas been programmed and/or set-up with a rule indicating that if motionmoves from the first ICD to a second ICD, then an alarm must be made.The first or second camera can send the alarm to the RSC as the ICDs canshare rules with each other.

In another embodiment of the present invention, in particular whereinthe system has video capabilities, the system includes ICDs that areoperable to communicate with each other and/or the wireless DIR toexchange data and/or control each other to ensure maximum throughput atthe appropriate ICDs. By way of example, a first ICD detects a firstmotion of a first object that is moving towards a second ICD; whereinthe first ICD has been programmed and/or set-up to send a status signalto the second ICD to ensure that the second ICD has the throughput itrequires to monitor the pending action.

In another embodiment of the present invention, in particular whereinthe system has video capabilities, the system includes ICDs that areoperable to communicate with each other and/or the wireless DIR toexchange data. Such data includes “content data” that is a separatestream of data from the video data. The ICDs and/or DIR work together tobecome a content management network whereby the content data is managed.By way of example, in a room monitored by an ICD, a person wearing a redsweater places a box on the floor, opens a door, and leaves. The ICDcould detect the following: (1) a moving mass that is the color red, theperson's sweater; (2) a movement in an otherwise steady mass, the door;and (3) a new mass now in the image, the box. In addition to the videoof the event, the ICD could store the content data of “a person wearingred left a box in the room and walked out the door.” This content datacan be shared with the DIR and/or other ICDs.

In another embodiment of the present invention, in particular whereinthe system has video capabilities, the system includes ICDs that areoperable to communicate with each other and/or the wireless DIR toexchange data and/or control each other based on a set of rules createdby the user. Such data includes “content data” that is a separate streamof data from the video data. The ICDs and/or DIR work together to becomea content management network whereby the content data is managed. By wayof example, in a room monitored by an ICD, a person wearing a redsweater places a box on the floor, opens a door, and leaves. The ICDcould detect the following: (1) a moving mass that is the color red, theperson's sweater; (2) a movement in an otherwise steady mass, the door;and (3) a new mass now in the image, the box. In addition to the videoof the event, the ICD could store the content data of “a person wearingred left a box in the room and walked out the door.” This content datacan be shared with the DIR and/or other ICDs. The content data maytrigger a rule, which could be set to issue an alarm if a mass is leftin the room, such as the box in the current example. The rule couldfurther include capturing and/or recording the ICD's inputs at anincreased frame rate, an increased resolution, and/or other action toensure that the important data, in this case the video of the new box,is captured or recorded by the ICD.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the at least one ICDincludes at least one video capture device or the ICD(s) have digitalvideo input capture capability and components functional for providingthe same; and the DIR includes digital video recording (DVR)capabilities and components functional for providing the same.Furthermore, the ICD(s) may be video camera(s) or provide such functionsimilar to video camera(s).

Additionally, microchip(s) within the ICD(s) provide intelligent inputcapture and learned pattern analysis, such as an ICD with videocapability identifying or sensing a mass of an object within itssurveillance range, comparing the input characteristics with referencedand/or learned information, labeling the sensed object based on a likelymatch in the referenced and/or learned information, communicating and/orreferencing programmed data to determine if other action is required,and performing the required action, as appropriate. By way of example, awireless digital camera senses a moving object within its targetsurveillance area, compares the size and shape of the object withreference information to determine that the moving object is likely aperson, checks rules or settings to determine whether sensing thepresence of a person is a trigger event for indicating an alarm, andcommunicating the alarm and/or recording and transmitting the imagesassociated with the moving object (person) to other ICD(s), the DVR,and/or the RSC. In another example, additional inputs such as RFIDinputs from tagged objects, identification badges, and the like, may beinputted to the ICD(s) and compared with reference information orsettings to activate (or not) a trigger event. Alternatively, theabsence of an RFID transmitter on a moving object (person) or stationaryobject (unauthorized package or object) in a secure area including thetarget surveillance environment may also be operable to activate atrigger event or alarm, and/or activate other sensors, such asradiation, sound, chemical detection, and the like, and combinationsthereof. By way of more detailed example, in the case of videosurveillance, where a person enters the target environment undersurveillance by the ICDs, and where the person has an employee badgewith an RFID or other transmitting capability, either active or passive,embedded or incorporated therein/on, the ICDs video capture identifiesthe RFID tag data and compares it with existing data or settings storedwithin the ICD(s). If the RFID tag data does not comport withpermissions available for and associated with that ID tag, then theICD(s) activates a trigger event, such as recording inputs includingvideo, audio, and other data associated with the person detected by theICD, such as, by way of example and not limitation, clothing color,direction of travel, mass, height, speed, whether the person is carryinganything, movement particulars like jerkiness or injury, and the like.The ICD(s) then cross-communicate to ensure that other ICDs are aware ofthe non-compliant detection by the first ICD so that they respondaccordingly. If the trigger event is an alarm event, then the ICDs areoperable to send notification directly to the DIR or through other ICDsto the DIR or RSC, such that corresponding alarm event actions occur,such as further third party notification and inputs recording asrequired or determined by settings or programming within the system. Inpreferred embodiments the ICDs are digital video cameras operable tocommunicate wirelessly with each other, the DIR, and/or the RSC.

In another embodiment according to the present invention, the ICDswithin the mesh network are further equipped with wireless communicationtransmitters, such as cellular phone transmitters or wide band cellularcards for providing cellular transmission/reception by each ICD, toprovide each ICD/camera with standalone capability to cross-communicatewith each other to extend the effective surveillance area and/or tocommunicate with each other to transmit and receive information that isfurther transmitted via the Internet to the RSC. Furthermore, businessmodels using such systems and components with this type of method ofoperation permit users to access the system and its inputs formonitoring after payment of a monthly service fee. If an authorized userhas paid the monthly subscription charge or service fee, then the usermay remotely access ICD inputs, including stored data, and can downloadthe stored or recorded input data through the RSC and/or a device inelectronic communication with the RSC.

Certain modifications and improvements will occur to those skilled inthe art upon a reading of the foregoing description. All modificationsand improvements have been deleted herein for the sake of concisenessand readability but are properly within the scope of the claims.

1-40. (canceled)
 41. A method for establishing one or moretelecommunication paths between a first communication appliance and asecond communication appliance located on a premises, wherein the firstcommunication appliance communicates with a plurality of observationdevices, the method comprising: creating a first communication lockbetween the first communication appliance and a target observationdevice of the plurality of observation devices, wherein the firstcommunication lock configures the first communication appliance totransmit at least a target portion of wireless data for deliveryexclusively to the target observation device, and wherein the firstcommunication lock corresponds to a first part of a first communicationpath between the first communication appliance and the secondcommunication appliance; creating a second communication lock betweenthe target observation device and the second communication appliance,wherein the second communication lock corresponds to a second part ofthe first communication path between the first communication applianceand the second communication appliance, and wherein the secondcommunication appliance communicates with at least one observationdevice other than the target observation device; capturing, by thetarget observation device, first observation data comprising at leastone of temperature data, chemical presence data, video data, image data,audio data, or RFID data while the target observation device isconfigured to receive data using the first communication lock andtransmit data using the second communication lock; and transmitting, bythe target observation device, at least a portion of the captured firstobservation data.
 42. The method of claim 41, wherein the secondcommunication lock configures the target observation device to transmitwireless data for delivery exclusively to the second communicationappliance.
 43. The method of claim 41, wherein the first communicationlock configures the target observation device to transmit the at least aportion of the captured first observation data for delivery exclusivelyto the first communication appliance.
 44. The method of claim 41,wherein the second communication lock configures the target observationdevice to transmit the at least a portion of the captured firstobservation data for delivery exclusively to the second communicationappliance.
 45. The method of claim 41, wherein transmitting, by thetarget observation device, at least a portion of the captured firstobservation data comprises transmitting the at least a portion of thecaptured first observation data to a plurality of communicationappliances.
 46. The method of claim 41, wherein the second communicationlock configures the second communication appliance to transmit wirelessdata for delivery exclusively to the target observation device.
 47. Themethod of claim 41, wherein the second communication appliancecommunicates with a third communication appliance.
 48. The method ofclaim 41, wherein a second communication path for communication betweenthe first communication appliance and the second communication applianceincludes the at least one observation device other than the targetobservation that communicates with the second communication appliance.49. The method of claim 41, wherein the first communication applianceand/or the second communication appliance is an observation device otherthan the plurality of observation devices, wherein the firstcommunication device and/or second communication device is configured tocapture second observation data, and wherein the second observation datacomprises at least one of second temperature data, second chemicalpresence data, second video data, second image data, second audio data,or second RFID data.
 50. The method of claim 49, wherein the at least atarget portion of wireless data transmitted by the first communicationappliance corresponds to the second observation data.
 51. The method ofclaim 41, wherein a user interface provides remote access to the firstcommunication appliance through the first communication path.
 52. Themethod of claim 41, wherein the first communication path extends therange of a surveillance area.
 53. The method of claim 41, furthercomprising automatically initiating security on the first communicationpath.
 54. A method for establishing a wireless telecommunication pathbetween a first communication device and a second communication device,the method comprising: creating a first wireless communication lockbetween the first communication device and an intermediate communicationdevice, wherein the first communication lock configures the firstcommunication device for wireless transmission of data to theintermediate communication device, wherein the first wirelesscommunication lock is a first part of the wireless telecommunicationpath; creating a second wireless communication lock between theintermediate communication device and the second communication device,wherein the second wireless communication lock is a second part of thewireless telecommunication path, and wherein the first communicationdevice and/or the second communication device is configured tocommunicate with additional communication devices while data istransmitted via the wireless telecommunication path; capturing, by theintermediate communication device, observation data including at leastone of temperature data, chemical presence data, video data, image data,audio data, or RFID data while the intermediate communication device isconfigured to receive data using the first communication lock andtransmit data using the second communication lock; and transmitting, bythe intermediate communication, at least a portion of the captured data.55. The method of claim 54, wherein the first communication deviceincludes an input recorder device and the intermediate communicationdevice includes an observation device.
 56. The method of claim 54,wherein the intermediate communication device is configured toautomatically establish communication with at least one additionalwireless device while maintaining the first and second communicationslocks.
 57. The method of claim 56, wherein the intermediatecommunication device transmits the at least a portion of the captureddata via the at least one additional wireless device.
 58. The method ofclaim 54, wherein the intermediate communication device receives atleast one of second temperature data, second chemical presence data,second video data, second image data, second audio data, or second RFIDdata using the first communication lock.
 59. A computer-readable storagemedium storing instructions that, when executed by a computing system,cause the computing system to perform operations for establishing afirst communication path between a first communication device and asecond communication device, the operations comprising: creating, afirst communication lock between the first communication device and afirst capture device of a first plurality of capture devices, whereinthe first communication device is capable of communicating with thefirst plurality of capture devices, wherein the first communication lockconfigures the first communication device to transmit first wirelessdata for delivery exclusively to the first capture device, and whereinthe first communication lock corresponds to a first part of the firstcommunication path between the first communication device and the secondcommunication device; creating, a second communication lock between thefirst capture device and the second communication device, wherein thesecond communication lock corresponds to a second part of the firstcommunication path between the first communication device and the secondcommunication device, and wherein the second communication device iscapable of communicating with at least one second capture device;capturing, by the first capture device, first environment datacomprising at least one of temperature data, chemical presence data,video data, image data, audio data, or RFID data while receiving, by thefirst capture device, data using the first communication lock and/ortransmitting, by the first capture device, data using the secondcommunication lock; and transmitting, by the first capture device, atleast a portion of the captured first environment data.
 60. Thecomputer-readable storage medium of claim 59, wherein the firstcommunication lock configures the first capture device to transmit thefirst environment data for delivery exclusively to the firstcommunication device.
 61. The computer-readable storage medium of claim59, wherein the second communication lock configures the first capturedevice to transmit wireless data for delivery exclusively to the secondcommunication device.
 62. The computer-readable storage medium of claim59, wherein a second communication path between the first communicationdevice and the second communication device excludes the first capturedevice.
 63. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 59, whereinthe second communication device does not accept one or morecommunications, identified as being from the first communication device,based on the one or more communications coming through a source otherthan the first capture device.
 64. The computer-readable storage mediumof claim 59, wherein the first communication device and/or the secondcommunication device is a third capture device configured to capturesecond environment data, and wherein the second environment datacomprises at least one of second temperature data, second chemicalpresence data, second video data, second image data, second audio data,or second RFID data.
 65. The computer-readable storage medium of claim64, wherein the first wireless data comprises the second environmentdata captured by the first communication device.
 66. An observationdevice configured to establish a communication path between a firstcommunication device and a second communication device, the observationdevice comprising: a memory; one or more processors; a transceiverconfigured to: create a first communication lock between the observationdevice and the first communication device, wherein the firstcommunication device is capable of communicating with a plurality ofobservation devices, wherein the first communication lock configures thefirst communication device to transmit wireless data for delivery to theobservation device, and wherein the first communication lock correspondsto a first part of the communication path between the firstcommunication device and the second communication device; and create asecond communication lock between the observation device and the secondcommunication device, wherein the second communication lock correspondsto a second part of the communication path between the firstcommunication device and the second communication device, and whereinthe second communication device is capable of communicating with atleast one second observation device; a capture component configured tocapture observation data comprising at least one of temperature data,chemical presence data, video data, image data, audio data, or RFID datawhile the transceiver is receiving data using the first communicationlock and/or transmitting data using the second communication lock; andwherein the transceiver is further configured to transmit at least aportion of the captured environment data.
 67. The observation device ofclaim 66, wherein the first communication lock configures the firstcommunication device to transmit wireless data for delivery exclusivelyto the observation device.
 68. The observation device of claim 66,wherein the second communication lock configures the observation deviceto transmit data received via the first communication lock for exclusivewireless delivery to the second communication device.
 69. Theobservation device of claim 66, wherein the second communication lockconfigures the second communication device to transmit wireless data fordelivery to the observation device.
 70. The observation device of claim66, wherein the transceiver is further configured to communicate with athird communication device and/or observation device.